Hout Bay High School pupils can look forward to learning in a new R1.5 million resource centre and library.
It was donated to the school by SA National Parks (SANParks) as part of project to develop communities next to national parks, and it was officially launched on Monday December 4, according to Table Mountain National Park spokeswoman Babalwa Dlangamandla.
SANParks regional manager Johan Taljaard said the facility would serve as a “comfortable, stimulating and supportive environment, conducive to research, reading and quiet learning for nearly 1000 learners between grades 8 and 12”.
The provincial Department of Arts and Culture had provided some sponsorship, he said.
The centre has library books, laptops, a data projector, a smart TV and furniture.
School principal Juan Julius said he was thrilled with the new facility and it would be of great benefit to pupils.
“This is really positive news for the Hout Bay area and our school. The resource centre and upgrade of the library at our school is of significant importance as you often always hear of things like this happening at richer schools than those less fortunate.
“Two years ago, SANParks came to our school, spoke with us and identified that our need was a resource centre. At the poorer schools, resources and learning material are major problems as we don’t always have the money for them, so usually we have to approach sponsors for donations. In light of this, I’m so grateful that SANParks came on board. This is a fantastic project, and SANParks didn’t even scoff at the cost as they said they wanted to leave their legacy for our learners and people who want to make use of the centre.”
Six pupils have formed a committee to raise funds for the resource centre’s future expenses and projects.
“I am very proud of this committee who have begun raising funds for the centre for the past six months,” said Mr Julius.
“The management of the resource centre is a team effort. I hope we can come with a structured plan to ensure that it flourishes and is protected from vandalism. We are also looking for a librarian who can help run the resource centre in the future.”
The centre would help pupils who had no internet access or battled to study while enduring stressful conditions at home, he said.
“We hope this is going to be a hub where we can improve their education and help guide them towards the careers of their choosing,“ Mr Julius said.
For more information or to make a contribution towards the resource centre, contact Mr Julius at juanjulius66@gmail.com or 072 972 5838.
